While using nLite, do you choose the last option? I don't have nLite open right this second but I believe it's Bootable ISO. So you do whatever you want nLite to do (remove components, automated install, slipstream hotfixes, etc) and after it's done and says something about if the installation grew or shrunk, what happens? It should give you an option to create a bootable ISO that you can then either use nLite or a 3rd party burning app to burn to CD. Just ensure the BIOS on the computer has the 1st boot device as the CD as opposed to the hard drive. Also, it's a good idea to look into virtualization software such as VirtualBox, VMWare, etc; this will save you a lot of coasters and frustration. Ask if you have questions.